Boston Celtics legend John Havlicek dies at 79

"He was a champion in every sense, and as we join his family, friends, and fans in mourning his loss, we are thankful for all the joy and inspiration he brought to us," the Celtics said in a statement.

Hall of Famer John Havlicek passed away today at the age of 79, the Boston Celtics announced.

The Celtics released the following statement:

John Havlicek is one of the most accomplished players in Boston Celtics history, and the face of many of the franchise's signature moments. He was a great champion both on the court and in the community, winning 8 NBA championships and an NBA Finals MVP, while holding Celtics career records for points scored and games played. Named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History, he is enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame and his retired #17 hangs in the Garden rafters.

His defining traits as a player were his relentless hustle and wholehearted commitment to team over self. He was extraordinarily thoughtful and generous, both on a personal level and for those in need, as illustrated by his commitment to raising money for The Genesis Foundation for Children for over three decades through his fishing tournament. John was kind and considerate, humble and gracious. He was a champion in every sense, and as we join his family, friends, and fans in mourning his loss, we are thankful for all the joy and inspiration he brought to us.

The No. 7 pick in the 1962 NBA Draft, Havlicek played 16 seasons with the Celtics. He won eight championships with the franchise and was named Finals MVP in 1974, when he led Boston over the Milwaukee Bucks with averages of 26.4 points, 7.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game.

Havlicek also made 13 All-Star Teams, four All-NBA First Teams and seven All-NBA Second Teams during his career.